Quantitative suspension tests for the evaluation of bactericidal, fungicidal and sporicidal effects of biocides used in vaccine production facility

Abstract

The appropriate use of biocides is essential in any vaccine production facility and their proper evaluation using standardized tests marks the first step to ensure their proper use. Quantitative suspension tests against reference and environmental isolates were carried out to evaluate the efficacy of various biocides used in the main vaccine production facility in Egypt. Several use-dilutions of the biocides were evaluated at contact times of up to 5 min in case of antiseptics and 30 min in case of disinfectants to measure the biocide activity against bacteria, fungi and spores. Standard strains were used in addition to the main bacterial isolates identified in an environmental monitoring program carried out in the same facility. Alcohol based biocides showed bactericidal and fungicidal activity but no sporicidal activity. Chlorine based compounds and glutaraldehyde showed bactericidal and fungicidal effect while, the sporicidal effects depended on the used dilution and the contact time. Hydrogen peroxide showed bactericidal, fungicidal and sporicidal activity. Quaternary ammonium compounds tested showed very weak activity in all tests. Evaluation of the biocide is an essential step to guarantee the use of the most appropriate agent in any location.